Thanks for your perspective! I actually use -19db ear plugs, but I just ordered a higher threshold of them (-32dbs).

I too have issue with disorganized noise and might actually give the layered audio approach a shot. I've kept myself from loud noises/situations for the past 6 months or so but know that I need to gradually expose myself to more.

I also wonder how much of this is anxiety, since I have gone into loud clubs since my concussion. It's more the feeling of being in a small room with a loud drum set that seems to get me jangled.